The zoo was using two cattle-herding dogs to keep an eye on the African elephants while in open areas with handlers. Federal inspectors, however, determined that the dogs were causing “behavioral stress” to the herd.

Responding to allegations by PETA and four members of Congress, the director of the National Institutes of Health defended the scientific importance of a federal lab’s research on baby monkeys. He also said the lab will stop using a few invasive procedures.

In an interview with NBC News, Simon said his work since being diagnosed with terminal cancer has “been a fight, it’s been an adventure, and it’s been an education and the most amazing experience of my life so far”.